STAMP goes EAST: Integrating systems ergonomics methods for the analysis of railway level crossing safety management

Various systems ergonomics methods are available to support the design and analysis of rail systems. Whilst the utility of these methods is accepted, the increasing complexity of modern day systems is stretching their capabilities. The integration of distinct systems ergonomics methods provides a means of redressing this. This article presents a study in which the underpinning principles of the STAMP control structure method were added to the EAST framework, and subsequently used to examine railway level crossing safety management. Task, social and information networks for a railway level crossing system lifecycle were developed along with an additional control network showing safety controls and their interrelations. Analysis of the networks points to a need to (1) strengthen activities and controls around proactive risk management and performance monitoring, (2) tighten the coupling between organisations responsible for safety management, and (3) to increase the flexibility of design standards. The implications for future railway level crossing safety management and rail safety research and practice are discussed